The two new devices tout an impressive lineup of specs, many of which contend with the latest Android-based hardware to recently hit the market. Both have 5-megapixel cameras and NFC capability (just like Samsung’s Nexus S), Bluetooth 2.1 and Wi-Fi, and both will run BlackBerry OS version 6.1.

The new BlackBerry Curve, codenamed "Apollo," by Research in Motion. Photo by Boy Genius Report.

From here, says Boy Genius Report, the phones deviate. The Apollo (above) will be running on a Tavor MG-1 800-MHz processor with 512 MB of RAM. Its 480×360 HVGA display will sit just above its QWERTY keyboard. It’s a nice update to RIM’s middle-of-the-road smartphone offerings.

A leaked photo of the BlackBerry Dakota by RIM. Photo by Boy Genius Report.

The Dakota, however, is aimed at the higher end of the smartphone market, and it’s got the specs to back it up. HD video recording capability, 4GB of built-in storage with 768MB of RAM, a 2.8-inch capacitive touch screen and an accelerometer all make the Dakota a force to be reckoned with. And yes, it does have 3G mobile hotspot capability.

The spec lists on the devices signal RIM’s willingness to change up their existing device configurations in order to compete with current smartphone market options. As iPhones and Android-based devices have lured away BlackBerry customers over the recent past, RIM has tried to fight for its once-burgeoning customer base. Last year, the company decided to overhaul the BlackBerry’s clunky OS and browser, and has also made efforts to woo developers by supporting Flash-based content on BlackBerry devices.